Degree option: Bachelor of Science with a major in astronomy.
Description of program: The Department of Physics and Astronomy offers a major directed toward a career in astronomy. The first-year and sophomore program includes a combined concentration in astronomy, physics and mathematics.
Most professional positions in astronomy and astrophysics generally require study leading to the Ph.D. degree. Opportunities include research positions in observatories, often in conjunction with university teaching, and scientific positions in government agencies and industry.
Program of study for major: The Bachelor of Science degree requires a minimum of 48 credit hours in astronomy and physics courses in a program to be developed by the student and the advisor and approved by the department. The upper division program concentrates on astrophysics with courses in such areas as quantum mechanics, electromagnetic theory, space and astrophysics, nuclear and particle physics and plasma physics. All programs include a common core of astronomy and physics courses in the first two years:
First year
Astronomy 1 & 1L - Descriptive Astronomy and Lab
Physics 5 - Topics in Physics
Physics 1 - Introductory Physics I
Sophomore year
Astronomy 51 - General Astronomy
Physics 2 - Introductory Physics II
Physics 50 - Modern Physics
Physics 59 - Advanced Laboratory I
Physics 191 - Physics Seminar
Minimum degree requirements for the Bachelor of Science degree also include:
Astronomy 185 - Introduction to Astrophysics I - Stars
Astronomy 195 - Introduction to Astrophysics II - Galaxies and Cosmology
Physics 121 - Theoretical Mechanics
Physics 122 - Introduction to Electromagnetic Theory
Physics 182 - Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics
Physics 191, 192, 193 - Physics Seminar I, II, III
Select one course from the following:
Physics 159 - Advanced Laboratory III
Physics 197 or 198 - Research Participation
Requirements for all programs also include Chemistry 1, General Chemistry I and related courses in mathematics and computer science appropriate to the option chosen by the student.
Depending on the student’s career goals, the academic advisor may recommend additional courses chosen from electives. The following courses are highly recommended for students going on to graduate school:
Physics 133 - Electronics
Physics 181 - Quantum Theory
Physics 188 - Advanced Classical Physics
Chemistry 2 - Introduction to Chemistry II
Degree Options: Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees with a major in physics. Students may choose one of several options in pure and applied physics.
Description of program: The basic physics major is designed for students interested in a career in industry or government laboratories, applied computer science, or in further study toward a graduate degree.
Physics majors and students studying for a minor in physics must obtain at least a grade of C in each required course taken for graduation.
For students planning to teach junior or senior high school physics, a cooperative program with the School of Education leads to Iowa secondary certification. Students complete a program of physics and education courses and a professional semester, which includes student teaching experience.
Students planning to enter medical or dental school may complete their undergraduate major in physics. This program includes the appropriate courses in biology and chemistry needed to satisfy medical or dental school entrance requirements.
For students who have an interest outside the present fields of concentration but whose educational goals can be realized through a combination of existing courses, an individualized major may be developed. Faculty members counsel students whose interests lie in this direction. Such individualized majors could include computational physics, geophysics, environmental physics, biophysics, chemical physics or astrophysics.
Additional courses are offered in physics and physical science to familiarize the general arts and sciences student with the current scientific interpretations of the fundamental physical laws that govern the universe.
Program of study for major: The Bachelor of Arts degree requires a minimum of 39 credit ours in physics, and the Bachelor of Science degree requires a minimum of 49 credit hours in physics in a program to be developed by the student and the adviser and approved by the department. All programs include a common core of six physics courses in the first two years:
First year
Physics 5 - Topics in Physics
Physics 1 - Introductory Physics I
Sophomore year
Physics 2 - Introductory Physics II
Physics 50 - Modern Physics
Physics 59 - Advanced Laboratory I
Physics 191 - Physics Seminar
Minimum degree requirements for the BA. and the B.S. degrees also include:
Physics 121 - Theoretical Mechanics
Physics 122 - Introduction to Electromagnetic Theory
Physics 133 - Electronics
Physics 182 - Thermodynamics and Statistical Physics
Physics 191, 192, 193 - Physics Seminars I, II, III
One course from the following:
Physics 149 or 159 - Advanced Laboratory II or III
Physics 197 or 198 - Research Participation
In addition, the Bachelor of Science degree requires:
Physics 181 - Quantum Theory
Physics 188 - Advanced Classical Physics
One course from the following: Physics 180, 183, 184, 186, 187, 189, 190, 197, 198; Astronomy 185, 195
Requirements for all programs also include Chemistry 1, General Chemistry I, and related courses in mathematics and computer science appropriate to the option chosen by the student.
Depending on the student’s career goals, the academic adviser may recommend additional courses chosen from electives.
Program of study for minor in physics: Minimum of 23 credit hours of physics courses: Physics 1, 2 and 5 and Physics 50, 133 and 191 All students planning to take a minor in physics must have a minor adviser in the Department of Physics. Students should consult their advisers regarding the mathematics pre-requisites for these courses.
The Department of Physics offers a cooperative program in engineering. Two options are available: a Two-Two Plan and a Three-Two Plan. Students interested in the Physics/Engineering Program must consult with the chair of the department before registration.
In the Two-Two Plan, a student spends the first two years as a student at Drake pursuing a program of basic studies, which parallels an engineering curriculum. Successful completion of the basic studies program qualifies a student for admission as a third-year student to any school of engineering.
In the Three-Two Plan, the student attends Drake University for three years, followed by two years at the School of Engineering and Applied Science, Washington University, St. Louis, Missouri.. With faculty approval, the first year of professional study may apply toward graduation from Drake University. The plan enables the student to earn both a BA or BS degree from Drake University and a BS degree in an area of engineering from Washington University.
Students are eligible for financial aid at both institutions.
The curriculum for the first two years is typically:
First Year Credit Hours
Mathematics 50, 70 - Analytic Geometry and Calculus I, II 8
Physics 5 - Topics in Physics 4
Physics 1 - Introductory Physics I 4
Computer Science 65 - Introduction to Computer Science I 3
Electives - Social Science or Humanities 12
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Second Year
Mathematics 80 - Linear Algebra 3
Mathematics 100 - Analytic Geometry and Calculus III 4
Physics 2 - Introductory Physics II 4
Physics 50 - Modern Physics 4
Physics 59 - Advanced Laboratory I 2
Physics 191 - Physics Seminar I 1
Chemistry 1, 2 - Inorganic Chemistry 8
Electives - Social
Science or Humanities 6
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1.
DESCRIPTIVE ASTRONOMY 3 hrs.
A one-semester course, primarily for nonmajors, focusing on the highlights of
results obtained from a study of the universe, including the solar system,
stellar evolution, galaxies, black holes and cosmology. Emphasis on physical
principles, the deductive process and the impact of the developing knowledge on
society. Three hours lecture per week. No prereq.
1L. INTRODUCTORY ASTRONOMY LABORATORY 1 hr.
Optional laboratory program that complements ASTR 1. Rooftop night
observations, laboratory bench experiments and observations at the Drake
Municipal Observatory. Formal reports including numerical computations
required. Three hours one evening per week. Coreq.: ASTR 1.
51. GENERAL ASTRONOMY 3 hrs.
A survey of the solar system, planetary motions, the sun as a star, evolution
of stars, galaxies and modern cosmology. Emphasis on mathematical descriptions
and model development. Three hours lecture per week. Prereq.: ASTR 1, PHY 1,
and MATH 50 or consent of instructor.
71. PROBLEMS IN POSITIONAL ASTRONOMY 2 hrs.
The celestial sphere in relation to the earth. Latitude, longitude, time,
positions and motions of celestial bodies. Occasional observations at the Drake
Municipal Observatory.
Prereq. or coreq.: Plane trigonometry and consent of instructor.
*150-*151. SELECTED TOPICS 1-3 hrs.
Study of a selected field in astronomy, according to student's interests, such
as practical astronomy, astrophysics, binary stars, celestial mechanics, etc.
Prereq.: Consent of instructor.
*PHYSICS 159. ADVANCED LAB III. CCD ASTRONOMY LAB 2hrs
A hands-on laboratory which illustrates the use electronic imaging devices
(CCDs) in modern astronomical photometry. Work is performed at the Drake
Municipal Observatory and the 24" telescope at Fick Observatory (Iowa
State University). Experiments include basic image processing techniques,
differential photometry, color-magnitude diagrams, extinction coefficients,
surface photometry and narrow-band imaging of nebulae and galaxies. Six hours
of laboratory per week. Prereq. ASTR 1L.
180-183. DIRECTED INDEPENDENT STUDY 1-3 hrs.
Directed individual study or projects in special topics, according to student's
interests. A maximum of six hours may be taken by any one student in these
courses. Prereq.: Consent of instructor.
*185. INTRODUCTION TO ASTROPHYSICS I. STARS (PHYSICS 185) 3
hrs.
A survey of stellar astrophysics, including stellar structure, stellar
evolution, variable stars, stellar populations, interstellar material. Three
hours lecture per week. Prereq.: PHY 50 or equivalent.
*195. INTRODUCTION TO ASTROPHYSICS II. GALAXIES AND
COSMOLOGY (PHYSICS 195) 3 hrs.
A survey of extragalactic astrophysics, including the structure of the Milky
Way, large scale structure and kinematics of galaxies, galactic dynamics,
active galaxies, quasars, galaxy clusters and Big Bang cosmologies. Three hours
lecture per week. Prereq.: PHY 50 and MATH 120 or consent of instructor.
1. PHYSICAL SCIENCE I
3 hrs.
An introduction to basic concepts of physical science and the scientific
method, with discussions of their applications to technology. Two hours of
lecture and two hours of laboratory per week.
51. ENERGY AND THE ENVIRONMENT 3 HRS
A study of present and future energy resources, technologies and their environmental consequences. Topics include the automobile, solar energy and electricity produced by conventional and nuclear power plants. Three hours of lecture per week.
52. TECHNOLOGY OF COMMUNICATIONS 3 hrs.
The evolution of communication technology. The basic principles, development
and operation of modern communications. Trends in communication for the future.
Three hours of lecture per week.
71. SOLAR ENERGY I 2 hrs.
Introduction to the direct use of solar radiation as an alternative energy
source for the future. Topics include the energy concept; solar heating;
photovoltaics; and energy from the wind. Three hours of lecture per week for 10
weeks or equivalent.
72. SOLAR ENERGY II 1 hr.
Introduction to the means by which useful energy can be obtained from solar
radiation. Topics will include heat transfer mechanisms; quantity of solar
radiation; solar collectors, active and passive techniques; photovoltaics; and
wind energy. Three hours of lecture per week for five weeks or equivalent.
Prereq.: PHSC 71 or consent of instructor.
101. LIGHT FOR THE ARTIST 3 hrs.
The macroscopic and microscopic properties of light are described and
illustrated through lecture demonstrations and laboratory investigations. The
laboratory includes studies of lenses, mirrors and prisms, the color quality of
light sources, and the unique properties of laser light with applications in
the field of 3-D photography. Two hours of lecture and two hours of laboratory
per week.
*189-*190. SELECTED TOPICS IN PHYSICAL SCIENCE 1-4 hrs.
In-depth study of a special topic or topics in physical science. Enrollment by
department consent.
1-2. INTRODUCTORY PHYSICS I AND II 4, 4 hrs.
An introduction to the fundamental concepts in physics from classical mechanics
through electrodynamics. Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory
per week. PHY 1 or equivalent is prerequisite for PHY 2. Prereq.: High school
algebra and trigonometry. Pre/Coreq.: MATH 50 (Calculus I).
5. INTRO TO TOPICS IN PHYSICS 4 hrs.
An introductory course taken in the fall semester of the freshman year mainly
by Physics, Astronomy and Pre-Engineering majors. Topics covered include
Optics, Inteference, Special Relativity, Introductory Cosmology and/or
Introduction to Particle Physics. Calculus is not required for this course but
students should take MATH 50 (Calculus I) simultaneously. Prereq.: High school
algebra and trigonometry.
11-12. GENERAL PHYSICS I AND II 4, 4 hrs.
Mechanics, properties of matter, heat and sound, light magnetism, electricity
and modern physics. Emphasis is placed on applications to the medical sciences.
Three hours of lecture and three hours of laboratory per week. PHY 11 is a
prerequisite for PHY 12. This course is designed primarily for biology majors,
premedical majors and other pre-professional biology. Prereq.: High school
algebra and trigonometry.
21. ELEMENTS OF PHYSICS 4 hrs.
A one-semester course on the principles and applications of physics. Selected
topics in mechanics, sound, light, electricity and modern physics. Two hours of
lecture, one hour discussion and three hours of laboratory per week. Prereq.:
High school algebra and trigonometry.
121. THEORETICAL MECHANICS 4 hrs.
Conservation laws and conservative systems; the harmonic oscillator, central
forces, rotating coordinates, angular momentum, rigid body dynamics and
relativity; methods of Lagrange. Four hours of lecture per week. Prereq.: PHY 1
or equivalent.
122. INTRODUCTION TO ELECTROMAGNETIC THEORY 4 hrs.
Theory of the electric potential, fields and currents; magnetic effects of
currents, electromagnetic induction, electric and magnetic fields in matter;
Maxwell's equations, applications and solutions. Four hours of lecture per
week. Prereq.: PHY 2 or equivalent.
50. MODERN PHYSICS 4 hrs.
Historical development of modern physics; wave and particle theories of matter;
discussion of origin of quantum theory and development of Schroedinger
equation; atomic and nuclear structure. Four hours of lecture per week.
Prereq.: PHY 2 and MATH 100.
*133. ELECTRONICS 4 hrs.
Intended for advanced undergraduate and graduate students who desire a
comprehensive course in electronic circuits and instrumentation. Two hours of
lecture and four hours of laboratory per week. Prereq.: PHY 2 or equivalent.
59. ADVANCED LABORATORY
I 2 hrs.
Experiments in modern physics. Six hours of laboratory per week. Coreq.: PHY 50
or equivalent.
149. ADVANCED LABORATORY II 2 hrs.
Advanced experiments in physics. Six hours of laboratory per week. Prereq.: PHY
59 or equivalent.
159. ADVANCED LABORATORY III. CCD ASTRONOMY LAB 2 hrs.
A hands-on laboratory which illustrates the use electronic imaging devices
(CCDs) in modern astronomical photometry. Work is performed at the Drake
Municipal Observatory and the 24" telescope at Fick Observatory (Iowa
State University). Experiments include basic image processing techniques,
differential photometry, color-magnitude diagrams, extinction coefficients,
surface photometry and narrow-band imaging of nebulae and galaxies. Six hours
of laboratory per week. Prereq.: ASTR1L
*180. ATOMIC AND MOLECULAR PHYSICS 3 hrs.
Atomic spectra, spectra of one and two electron systems, structure of diatomic
molecules, atomic and molecular processes. Three hours of lecture per week.
Prereq.: PHY 50 or equivalent.
*181. QUANTUM THEORY 4 hrs.
The solution of Schrodinger's equation for harmonic oscillator and hydrogen
atoms; eigenfunctions and eigenvalues, potential well problems; scattering
theory and matrix formulation. Three hours of lecture per week. Prereq.: PHY 50
or equivalent and MATH 120 or consent of instructor.
*182. THERMODYNAMICS AND STATISTICAL PHYSICS 4 hrs.
Thermodynamics properties of matter; kinetic theory of gases; introduction to
classical and quantum statistical mechanics. Three hours of lecture per week.
Prereq.: PHY 50 or equivalent.
*183. NUCLEAR AND PARTICLE PHYSICS 3 hrs.
Properties of nuclei, the nuclear force, the two nucleon problem, complex
nuclei, nuclear models, radioactive decay and selection rules, elementary
particle production and decay, symmetries and conservation laws. Three hours of
lecture per week. Prereq.: PHY 50 or equivalent.
*184. MODERN OPTICS 3 hrs.
Wave theory; interference and diffraction; polarization; interaction of
radiation and matter; coherent radiation. Three hours of lecture per week.
Prereq.: PHY 50 or equivalent.
*185. INTRODUCTION TO ASTROPHYSICS I (ASTRONOMY 185) 3 hrs.
A survey of astrophysics, including stellar structure, stellar evolution,
variable stars, stellar populations, interstellar material, large scale
structure and kinematics of galaxies, and galactic rotation. Three hours
lecture per week. Prereq.: PHY 50 or equivalent.
*186. INTRODUCTION TO PLASMA PHYSICS 3 hrs.
Atomic collisions and kinetic theory; motion of charged particles; continuum
magnetohydrodynamics and elementary stability theory; transport processes;
waves, oscillations and radiation in plasma. Three hours of lecture per week.
Prereq.: PHY 50 or equivalent.
*187. INTRODUCTION TO SOLID STATE PHYSICS 3 hrs.
Lattice dynamics and thermodynamics of solids; free electron theory of metals
and band structure of solids; electronic structure of conductors, insulators
and semiconductors. Three hours of lecture per week. Prereq.: PHY 50 or
equivalent.
*188. ADVANCED CLASSICAL PHYSICS 4 hrs.
Calculus of variations, Langrangian and Hamiltonian methods; Hamilton-Jacobi
theory, continuum mechanics; Laplace's equation, relativistic electrodynamics,
radiation fields and applications. Four hours of lecture per week. Prereq.: PHY
121 and 122; MATH 120 or consent of instructor.
*189-190. SELECTED TOPICS IN PHYSICS 1-4, 1-4 hrs.
In-depth study of a special topic or topics in physics. Prereq.: Consent of the
department.
191.-192.-193. PHYSICS SEMINAR I, II AND III 1-1-1 hr. Students make presentations on current topics of interest in Physics or Astronomy. Critiques are also made of presentations as students learn how to make a "good" presentation. Required in each of sophomore, junior and senior years.
*195. INTRODUCTION TO ASTROPHYSICS II. (ASTRONOMY 195) 3 hrs.
A survey of extragalactic astrophysics, including the structure of the Milky
Way, large scale structure and kinematics of galaxies, galactic dynamics,
active galaxies, quasars, galaxy clusters and Big Bang cosmologies. Three hours
lecture per week. Prereq.: PHY 50 and MATH 120 or consent of instructor.
197.-198. RESEARCH PARTICIPATION I AND II 1-4, 1-4 hrs.
Students enrolled in these courses work with members of the staff in research
projects. Prereq.: Consent of the department.